Sapporo Clock Tower, Hokkaido Travel Guide

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A historic landmark in Sapporo, the Clock Tower showcases the city's development and Japan's westernization during the Meiji era.

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Sapporo Clock Tower

The Sapporo Clock Tower, officially the Former Sapporo Agricultural College Gymnasium, is a beloved symbol of Sapporo. Built in 1878, it represents the city's early development and Japan's westernization during the Meiji period. Today, it functions as a museum showcasing the building's history and Sapporo's growth.

A brief summary to Sapporo Clock Tower

2 Chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Sapporo, 2 Chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Hokkaido, 060-0001, JP
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Monday 8:45 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8:45 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8:45 am-5 pm
Thursday 8:45 am-5 pm
Friday 8:45 am-5 pm
Saturday 8:45 am-5 pm
Sunday 8:45 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sapporo Clock Tower.

Visit at night to see the Clock Tower beautifully illuminated and to avoid the daytime crowds.
Check the schedule for concerts or events held in the second-floor hall.
Take a panoramic photo of the Clock Tower from the second-floor terrace of the Sapporo MN Building across the street.

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Explore Sapporo Clock Tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Sapporo Clock Tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From JR Sapporo Station, the Clock Tower is a 10-minute walk south. Head south from the station. The Clock Tower will be on your left. From Odori Park, the Clock Tower is a 5-minute walk north. There is no parking available at the Clock Tower. Use nearby paid parking facilities.
Public Transport

Take the Namboku Line to Odori Station. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to the Clock Tower. Alternatively, several bus lines stop near the Clock Tower. Check local bus route maps for the closest stop. Subway fares range from ¥200-¥360 for adults. A single tram ride is ¥200 for adults. A one-day streetcar pass is ¥500 for adults.

Discover more about Sapporo Clock Tower

The Sapporo Clock Tower, known locally as Tokeidai, is a historical landmark in the heart of Sapporo. Constructed in 1878 as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College (now Hokkaido University), it stands as a symbol of the city's early development. The idea for the tower came from Dr. William Smith Clark, the first Vice-Principal of the Sapporo Agricultural College.The building's American colonial architecture reflects Japan's enthusiasm for Western modernization during the Meiji period. In 1881, a clock purchased from Boston was installed. The clock tower is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.The two-story building houses a museum with exhibits about the Clock Tower's history and Sapporo. On the first floor, you'll find exhibits and photo panels introducing the Clock Tower's history and development, as well as video explanations and a large-scale model depicting the Sapporo Agricultural College era. The second-floor hall has been restored to its Meiji-era auditorium appearance. The clock continues to keep accurate time, and its bell chimes every hour.At sunset, the Clock Tower is illuminated, creating a magical scene. The red roof and white walls of its retro exterior are lit up by LED lights, offering a mysterious spectacle that feels like stepping back in time.